The 786 cannabis plants were found on Sunday afternoon following information provided by a member of the public that led officers to an industrial estate in Thornbury.

Upon investigating the area, officers could smell what they believed to be cannabis and could also hear a low humming noise from one of the units. A closer inspection found a door slightly open which revealed a large amount of cannabis plants.

Further searches identified a second unit to also be containing cannabis plants.

No arrests have yet been made and enquiries are ongoing.

South Gloucestershire Neighbourhood Inspector, Clive Summerill, commented: “This is another important find and we are committed to identifying those responsible for cultivating this significant amount of cannabis.

“The amount seized is clearly not for personal use and the suspects are organised criminals who we believe are exploiting vulnerable people as part of their operation.

“This is a real blow to the criminals and our message is clear – we will use all of our resources to identify, arrest and convict you and we will not stop in our efforts in preventing these drugs getting onto the streets of our local communities where they can and do cause serious harm.

“As always, we are really grateful for information provided to us by members of the public and encourage anyone who might be able to help with our investigation to get in touch.”

Cannabis grows – the signs to look for:

A strong vegetable smell

Windows covered from the inside with plastic or polythene

Condensation on windows

Curtains always drawn

House appearing unoccupied, or tenants who do not engage with their neighbours.

If you can help, please call
101
and give the call handler the reference number
5219243085